Glandular fever

Glandular; fever; ;

Glandular fever is an infection caused by the Epstein Barr virus (EBV). It is also called Infectious Mononucleosis and sometimes the ‘Kissing Disease’. Once a person catches Epstein Barr virus, it is believed that the virus remains in his or her body for life, though it usually does not cause further illness. By adulthood, 90 to 95% of people in Australia have been infected with EBV.

If your child has a very sore throat, swollen glands in their neck or in other parts of their body, and if they have been feeling very tired and unwell, they may have glandular fever. Take them to your doctor to get it checked out.

The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see a doctor, or ring the Parent Helpline on 1300 364 100 (local call cost from anywhere in South Australia).

This topic may use 'he' and 'she' in turn - please change to suit your child's sex.